In a swift and decisive move, Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, has indefinitely suspended a top-ranking government official, Nasiru Abubakar Kigo, over controversial remarks that alleged Kebbi and Sokoto States have the highest number of registered gays and lesbians in Northern Nigeria.
The suspension, which sent shockwaves across the state, was confirmed on Friday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ahmed Idris. The embattled official, who also doubles as an Islamic cleric and permanent secretary, made the contentious statement during a Ramadan seminar held at the Adamu Aliero Housing Estate in Birnin Kebbi.
In a strongly worded letter issued by the Kebbi State Head of Service, Malami Shekare, the government described Kigo’s comments as a blatant violation of civil service rules, categorizing them as “social misconduct” that brought shame and disrepute to the state.
“This statement is not only misleading but also wholly unacceptable in a morally upright society. It undermines public decency and is deeply injurious to the image of Kebbi State. Mr. Kigo is to remain suspended pending the outcome of a thorough investigation,” the letter read.
Reacting swiftly to the brewing scandal, the Kebbi State Government distanced itself from Kigo’s assertions, denouncing them as “fictitious, baseless, and unrepresentative of the values and principles of the administration.”
The government emphasized its commitment to upholding public morality and protecting the integrity of its institutions, stating that it would not condone any form of misinformation or public misrepresentation from civil servants, no matter how highly placed.
The incident has ignited a flurry of public discourse, with citizens and stakeholders calling for greater accountability and sensitivity from public officials, especially when addressing socially sensitive issues in religious or public gatherings.
As investigations commence, the state awaits the findings that could determine whether Kigo’s comments were based on any documented facts or a reckless attempt to stir public sentiment.
This latest development underscores Governor Nasir Idris’ zero-tolerance stance on misconduct and reinforces his administration’s resolve to preserve the dignity and moral fabric of Kebbi State.
PIONEER NEWS 